On this day in 2024, let’s talk about HPV awareness: what is it, and why is it vital to know?
A family of viruses known as the human papillomavirus (HPV) may infect several areas of the body, although it usually affects the oral and genital areas. Infection from sexual activity is the most prevalent internationally.
Based on its propensity to result in health problems, HPV is divided into high-risk and low-risk varieties.
Dr. Anusha Rao P, Consultant Obstetrics & Gynecology, Yashoda Hospitals Hyderabad, states that there is a higher chance of cancer development in high-risk HPV varieties, such as HPV 16 and 18. These viruses have the ability to incorporate their genetic material into the DNA of their hosts, impairing regular cellular activity. Approximately 70% of instances of cervical cancer are caused by high-risk HPV strains.
Genital and non-genital warts may both be brought on by HPV. These warts may develop in the anus, on the genitalia, or even on the neck. Genital warts may be uncomfortable and persistent, even though they are usually not linked to the development of cancer.
The disruption of the cell cycle by HPV is the mechanism by which the virus causes cancer. High-risk varieties may cause uncontrollably dividing infected cells, which might result in the development of precancerous lesions. These lesions have the potential to develop into invasive malignancies if left untreated.
High-risk HPV infections are the main contributor to cervical cancer. The virus infects the cervical cells, and if the infection persists, normal cells may become precancerous (a condition known as dysplasia). Dysplastic cells may eventually develop into aggressive malignancies.
Vaccination is one preventive approach that works quite well against the most prevalent high-risk kinds. Gardasil and Cervarix are the two primary forms of HPV vaccination. Gardasil offers protection against HPV types 6 and 11, which are linked to genital warts, as well as types 16 and 18, which cause the majority of cervical malignancies. Gardasil 9 also offers protection against five more high-risk HPV strains. The main targets of Cervarix are HPV 16 and 18. To provide strong and enduring protection against these high-risk HPV strains, both vaccinations are given in a series of doses. A key preventative strategy to lower the incidence of malignancies linked to HPV and other related health problems is vaccination.
Frequent screenings, including HPV testing and Pap smears, are essential for identifying abnormalities early on, enabling prompt management, and lowering the chance of developing cancer.
